There’s one big problem with flying around the world filming a new travel series.

There’s simply too much to fit in. Escape To… saw host Merrick Watts, intrepid reporters Lizzy Hoo and Tyson Mayr, and the expert team from Escape travel to France, Italy, Singapore, Fiji, the Top End, the Kimberley, and Perth. Each destination is packed with unique and memorable experiences, but sometimes there’s no choice but to sacrifice hidden gems to the cutting room floor. 

Here are eight things you didn’t see that the cast highly recommends.

Episode 1: The Riviera

Enjoy secluded Mediterranean beaches

“We covered a lot of ground exploring the French and Italian Riviera during the week-long shoot, and while there were so many amazing locations, Elba Island is the one that I find myself thinking of again and again. Part of the Tuscan Archipelago, the island has a storied history, most notably as the place Napoleon was exiled in 1814. In the episode, we’re treated to a cantucci cooking class, but what I loved the most were the secluded beaches, many of which I had all to myself. Spending an afternoon exploring the coastline while the crew rehearsed for the panel onboard the Emerald Azzurra, I stumbled upon Capo Bianco and instantly fell in love with its white cliffs and the soothing sound of rolling waves meeting the pebbled shore. I still daydream about renting a villa in the summer and living my best Tuscan life.” John Hannan, Digital Director (Escape)

Watch episode one now.

Episode 2: The Red Centre

Pick up the ultimate Australian souvenir

“The minute I arrive at Darwin Berrimah Terminal to get on the Ghan, I don my Akubra Cattleman for the first time. Pairing one Aussie icon with another is just the start of my immersion into the Red Centre and on to Alice Springs. Over the coming days the Escape To… team hears the ancient stories of the land from indigenous guides and learns the history of the early explorers; some of us see it from on high in a helicopter and others traverse the land on foot, but all of us enjoy the journey in between on the legendary train. At the end of the trip, the wide-brimmed symbol of our wide brown land, becomes the ultimate souvenir as the fabulous staff from the train – who all wear Akubras as part of their uniform – present host Merrick and roving reporters Tyson and Lizzy with one of their own to wear as a memento.” Jana Frawley, Content Director (Escape)

Watch episode two now.

Episode 3: Provence

Experience the magic of bread and wine

“Croissants might be the go-to pastry when visiting Paris, but if there’s one thing you have to try when in Provence, it’s fougasse (and, of course, rosé). The doughy, lattice-shaped bread is France’s answer to its southern cousin, focaccia, and is a staple easily found in boulangeries dotted throughout the region. When shooting in Arles, we spent a magical morning stooped on the steps of the Church of Saint-Trophime (a former cathedral) overlooking the forum while working our way through cheese and olive studded fougasse from nearby Maison Soulier. Days later, while in Avignon, we discovered Le Vin Devant Soi, a bottle shop specialising in local wines, including the region’s famed Chateauneuf-du-Pape. While you get to see a sneak preview in the episode, what you don’t see is the amazing wine tastings they conduct, showcasing incredible varieties from the neighbouring regions.” John Hannan, Digital Director (Escape)

Watch episode three now.

Episode 4: The Kimberley

See nature’s version of dinner and a show

“Catching the sunset at Broome’s Cable Beach remains a special memory from this episode’s shoot. Arriving late in the afternoon, we all raced down to experience golden hour, where we were greeted with the pristine water and salty spray of the Indian Ocean. At low tide, you’ll find locals and visitors pulling right up onto the beach in their 4WDs for primetime viewing of the event, while those looking for the ultimate thrill can be seen hitching a ride with a caravan of camels along the shoreline. Nearby, Zanders is also the place to go for sundowners and seafood, including the local favourites, barramundi or buckets of prawns.” John Hannan, Digital Director (Escape)

Watch episode four now.

Related story: Turn that stopover into a stay. A tiny house ‘village’ is set to open on Singapore’s Lazarus Island 

Episode 5: Singapore

Plan a visit to the city’s most iconic stay

“Our panel location for this shoot was Singapore’s iconic Raffles Hotel but there’s so much more to this grand hotel than just the famous blue fountain seen behind us. Here are three things you didn’t see on camera… the pure white Italian marble lining the floors and walls of the foyer and external walkways are jaw dropping. As my colleague’s mum once said, ‘This must be what heaven looks like’. You’ll be greeted by a Sikh doorman dressed in military inspired uniform who must be at least 1.9m tall. Narajan Singh has been one of the Raffles doormen since 1992 and his image is now emblazoned on keychains and umbrellas that can be bought at the Raffles Boutique. Finally, if you visit the Long Bar for a famous Singapore Sling, don’t be surprised to see nut shells littering the ground. It’s a tradition for drinkers to help themselves to the free peanuts at the bar and discard the shells on the ground.” Rowena Ryan, Digital Editor (Escape)

Watch episode five now.

Episode 6: Perth

Sample the best of the west in Fremantle

“The crystal clear waters of Rottnest Island may have got most of the attention when filming in Perth but what didn’t make the cut was where the crew ate and drank. The food and wine scene is booming in the west and one place in particular deserves a mention. Located smack bang on the wharf next to the Rottnest Express ferry departure and arrival terminal in Fremantle is Gage Roads Brew Co. Set in a former cargo shed, this funky brewery has beach shack vibes (although it seats 1500 people) with local brews and a coastal inspired menu. It became our go to spot on our daily return ferry journey from Rotto. Rowena Ryan, Digital Editor (Escape)

Watch episode six now.

Episode 7: Fiji

Giggle at a hilarious evening of… frog racing?

“One of the things that sets Fiji apart as a holiday destination is the way so many Fijian people just love kids. When we weren’t filming I spent a lot of time marvelling at the way the staff at our resort (Radisson Blu) went above and beyond to entertain the children and give them a holiday to remember. From mini dance parties to raucous pool volleyball matches, and cake decorating classes there was just so much for little people to do. The sheer amount of activities on offer also freed the parents up to just relax and imbibe a few cocktails in the sun. Also, there’s frog racing in the evenings. How that didn’t make the cut, I don’t know.” Simone Mitchell, Associate Digital Editor (Escape)

Watch episode seven now.

Episode 8: Singapore

Learn the rules of engagement at hawker markets

“I’d heard that Singaporeans were obsessed with food but eating truly is their national pastime and there are a few rules tourists need to brush up on when dining at the famous Hawker Centres. One – to reserve or ‘chope’ a table the Singaporean way, simply place a pack of tissues on an empty table – they also double as a napkin as these are not supplied. Two – when you’re done, be sure to return your tray after your meal and clear your table of disposable cutlery and tissue paper. This is now mandated by law and getting caught for failing to do so will incur you a fine of SGD $300 or more. Lastly, if you’re on the hunt for the famous satay, remember this is not a daytime snack, satay is served from 7pm onwards.” Rowena Ryan, Digital Editor (Escape)

Watch episode eight now.

Related story: Cure your Mondayitis with this incredible Fiji resort you won’t want to leave